Gram-Negative Infections

By: Melai Evans

Gram-Negative Infections

By: Melai Evans

GRAM-NEGATIVE INFECTIONS

"Gram-negative bacteria cause infections including pneumonia, bloodstream infections, wound or surgical site infections, and meningitis in healthcare settings. Gram-negative bacteria are resistant to multiple drugs and are increasingly resistant to most available antibiotics. These bacteria have built-in abilities to find new ways to be resistant and can pass along genetic materials that allow other bacteria to become drug-resistant as well. CDC’s aggressive recommendations, if implemented, can prevent the spread of gram-negatives." Information from the CDC

HOW THE DISEASE IS TRANSMITTED

In some cases, bacteria can enter the body through urinary and intravenous catheters, ventilators, or wounds. Open wounds are the most common. These types of infections affect the very ill and the elderly and are often difficult to treat. This is why it is important to keep wounds cleaned.

DIAGNOSIS

It is diagnosed by the symptoms like...

confusion

high fever

lack of interest in eating or drinking

nausea

seizures

sensitivity to light

severe headache

sleepiness

stiff neck

vomiting

Frequency

The frequency is less then 10% a year.

TREATMENT

It is resistant to most antibiotics. The only thing that doctors can really use are drugs such as colistin, which can have toxic side effects.